Mortgages Alberta

Lisa
Author:
Lisa
Lisa Rennie
Senior Contributor at Loans Canada
Lisa has worked as a personal finance writer for over a decade, creating unique content to help educate Canadian consumers. Expertise:
  • Personal finance
  • Real estate
  • Mortgage financing
  • Investing
Caitlin
Reviewed By:
Caitlin
Caitlin Wood
Editor-in-Chief at Loans Canada
Caitlin Wood has more than a decade of experience helping Canadian consumers learn how to take control of their finances. Expertise:
  • Personal finance
  • Consumer borrowing
  • Credit improvement
  • Debt management
📅
Updated On: November 1, 2024

Mortgages Alberta - Compare Providers

Personal Loan: lenders compared by loan amount, rate and term
LenderLoan amountRateTermDetails
Spring Financial Personal Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (3 reviews)
$500 – $35,000 9.99% – 34.95% 6 – 84 months Learn more
LendDirect Personal Line of Credit Rated 4.8 out of 5 (6 reviews)
Up to $10,000 34.99% Not listed Learn more
Mogo Finance Line of Credit Rated 3.8 out of 5 (10 reviews)
Up to $5,000 34.37% Not listed Learn more
easyfinancial Personal Loan (Unsecured) Rated 3.8 out of 5 (45 reviews)
$500 – $150,000 9.99% – 34.95% 9 - 240 months Learn more
Fairstone Financial Unsecured Personal Loan Rated 4.5 out of 5 (42 reviews)
Up to $50,000† 19.99% – 34.99%* 6 – 120 months Learn more
MDG Cash Installment Loan Rated 4.2 out of 5 (5 reviews)
Up to $20,000 19.8% – 34.99% 36 – 85 months Learn more
Fora Line Of Credit No reviews yet
$1,000 – $15,000 19.9% – 34.9% Not listed Learn more
Money Mart Installment Loan Rated 4.1 out of 5 (15 reviews)
$500 – $25,000 29.9% or 34.28% 6 – 84 months Learn more
SkyCap Financial Personal Loan Rated 4 out of 5 (5 reviews)
$500 – $100,000 12.99% – 34.99% 9 – 60 months Learn more
Cashco Financial Personal Loan – Flex Loan Rated 4.7 out of 5 (3 reviews)
Up to $9,000 35% 6 – 60 months Learn more
Magical Credit Magical Installment Loans Rated 4.1 out of 5 (12 reviews)
up to $20,000 19.99% – 35% 12 - 60 months Learn more
LoanMeNow Personal Loan Rated 4.5 out of 5 (10 reviews)
$500 – $1000 Up to 32% 3 months Learn more
Green Loans Personal Loan No reviews yet
Up to $1,000 Up to 35% Not listed Learn more
goPeer Personal Loan Rated 4.6 out of 5 (5 reviews)
$1,000 – $35,000 8.99% – 34.99% 36 or 60 months Learn more
GoLoans Installment Loan No reviews yet
$500 – $5,000 Up to 32% 3 – 4 months Learn more
LendCare Installment Loan Rated 4.2 out of 5 (25 reviews)
$500 – $15,000 9.9% – 29.9% 12 – 60 months Learn more
Ledn Bitcoin-Backed Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (3 reviews)
$1,000 – $1,000,000 10.4% 12 months Learn more
Borrowell Personal Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (4 reviews)
Up to $35,000 Starting at 12.99% Up to 60 months Learn more
Windmill Microlending Professional development loans No reviews yet
$15,000 6.7% Up to 60 months Learn more
Parachute Personal Loan No reviews yet
Up to $25,000 24.99% – 29.99% 30 or 60 months Learn more
Helium Loans Personal Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
$500 – $50,000 Varies 6 – 60 months Learn more
Fast Access Financial Personal Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
$1,000 – $5,000 Starting at 9.90% 12 – 36 months Learn more
DMO Crédit Personal Loan Rated 4.6 out of 5 (10 reviews)
$300 – $1,000 28% – 35% 90 days – 16 weeks Learn more
Cash Depot Short-Term Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (2 reviews)
$300 – $3000 18% + fees 6 months Learn more
Financeit Personal Loans Rated 5 out of 5 (13 reviews)
$500 – $100,000 Starting at 12.99% Up to 60 months Learn more
SimplyBorrowed Personal Installment Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
$1,500 – $10,000 Not listed 12 – 60 months Learn more
LM Credit Unsecured Personal Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (8 reviews)
$500 – $15,000 10.99% – 34.99% 9 – 60 months Learn more
Dashloans Personal Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (3 reviews)
Up to $1,250 Up to 32% 90 – 150 days Learn more
Lamina Personal Loan Rated 3.7 out of 5 (34 reviews)
$300 – $1500 Starting at 18% 3 – 7 months Learn more
Eastern Loans Personal Loan Rated 3.7 out of 5 (6 reviews)
$500 – $750 ~23% 3+ months Learn more
Captain Cash Personal Loan Rated 3.3 out of 5 (12 reviews)
$500 – $1000 23% 90 – 150 days Learn more
Loan Away Personal Loan Rated 3.1 out of 5 (7 reviews)
Up to $5,000 19.9% – 35% 6 – 36 months Learn more
Credit2Go Short Term Loan Rated 3 out of 5 (11 reviews)
$250 – $1,500 23.99% – 29.99% 3 – 4 months Learn more
Progressa Debt Consolidation Loan Rated 3 out of 5 (4 reviews)
$1,000 – $15,000 19% – 34.95% 12 – 60 months Learn more
LM Financial Personal Loan No reviews yet
Up to $15,000 Not listed Not listed Learn more
Afterpay Buy Now Pay Later No reviews yet
Varies 0% 6 or 8 weeks Learn more
FlexMoney Installment Loan No reviews yet
$500 – $15,000 Starting at 18.9% 6 – 60 months Learn more
Deposit My Cash Now Micro Loan No reviews yet
$300 – $3000 (first-time clients can receive up to $1,000) 18% + fees 6 months Learn more
My Next Pay Micro Loan No reviews yet
$300 – $3000 (first-time clients can receive up to $1,000) 18% + fees 6 months Learn more
Northstar Brokers Micro Loan No reviews yet
$300 – $3000 (first-time clients can receive up to $1,000) 18% + fees 6 months Learn more
City Lending Centers (CLC) Micro Loan No reviews yet
$150 – $1,600 10 – 35% 3 – 6 months Learn more
APX Lending Crypto-Backed Loan No reviews yet
$10,000; no maximums Not listed 3 - 60 months Learn more
Payday Loan: lenders compared by loan amount, rate and term
LenderLoan amountRateTermDetails
iCash Payday Loan Rated 4.6 out of 5 (16 reviews)
Up to $1,500 $14 per $100 Up to 62 days Learn more
Cash Bull Payday Loan No reviews yet
$300 – $1,500 $12 per $100 42 – 62 days Learn more
Mr. Payday Payday Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
$100 – $1,500 $14 per $100 14 – 31 days Learn more
My Canada Payday Payday Loan Rated 4.8 out of 5 (6 reviews)
Up to $1,500 $14 per $100 Next payday, or the one after Learn more
Speedy Cash Payday Loan Rated 4.5 out of 5 (2 reviews)
$200 – $1,500 $14 per $100 Next payday Learn more
North’n Loans Payday Loans Rated 4.7 out of 5 (6 reviews)
$100 – $1,500 $14 per $100 Not listed Learn more
Pay2Day Payday Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (3 reviews)
Up to $1,500 $14 per $100 Next payday, 42 days in Alberta Learn more
GoDay Payday Loan Rated 4 out of 5 (5 reviews)
$100 – $1,500 $14 per $100 Next pay date, 14 – 30 days Learn more
Loan Express Payday Loan Rated 4.3 out of 5 (6 reviews)
up to $1,500 $14 per $100 14 days Learn more
Focus Financial Inc. Payday Loan Rated 2.2 out of 5 (6 reviews)
$100 – $1,500 $14 per $100 Next payday Learn more
Cash Advance: lenders compared by loan amount, rate and term
LenderLoan amountRateTermDetails
Spring Financial Spark Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (3 reviews)
$100 – $2,500 28.9% (about 29.9% APR with the $1 access fee) May decrease as you unlock higher loan amounts 12 months Learn more
Bree Cash Advance Rated 5 out of 5 (3 reviews)
Up to $750 0% Up to 90 days Learn more
Nyble Line Of Credit No reviews yet
$30 – $250 0% Not listed Learn more
Auto Loan: lenders compared by loan amount, rate and term
LenderLoan amountRateTermDetails
Canada Drives Car Loan Rated 4.6 out of 5 (10 reviews)
Up to $100,000 3.99% - 19.9% 24 -96 months Learn more
SafeLend Auto Loan Refinance No reviews yet
Min $10,000 6.93% – 19.99% 18 – 96 months Learn more
easyfinancial Car Loan Rated 3.8 out of 5 (45 reviews)
$500 – $150,000 9.99% – 34.95% 9 - 240 months Learn more
Car Loans Canada Car Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
Not listed Up to 29.99% 12 – 96 months Learn more
Eden Park Car Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (6 reviews)
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
Fairstone Financial Car Loan Rated 4.5 out of 5 (42 reviews)
Up to $50,000† 19.99% – 34.99%* 6 – 120 months Learn more
Auto Credit Deals Car Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (2 reviews)
$5,000 – $75,000 Not listed 12 – 96 months Learn more
LendCare Car Loan Rated 4.2 out of 5 (25 reviews)
Up to $50,000 Not listed Up to 60 months Learn more
Helium Loans Auto Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
$500 – $50,000 Varies 6 – 60 months Learn more
Carloans411 Auto Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
Not listed Not listed 12 – 84 months Learn more
2nd Chance Automotive Car Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
Not listed Starting at 4.2% Not listed Learn more
Prefera Finance Recreational Vehicle Loan Rated 4.8 out of 5 (20 reviews)
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) Auto Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
Starting $7,500 Not listed 12 – 96 months Learn more
Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) Auto Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
Min $7,500 Not listed 12 – 96 months Learn more
Desjardins Auto Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
$7,500 + Not listed 6 – 96 months Learn more
Auto Capital Canada Car Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (5 reviews)
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
Canada Auto Finance Auto Loans Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
$5,000 – $45,000 4.90 % – 29.95% Not listed Learn more
Coast Capital Savings Car Loans Rated 5 out of 5 (2 reviews)
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
National Powersports Financing Vehicle Financing Rated 5 out of 5 (7 reviews)
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
Rifco Auto Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (2 reviews)
Not listed Starting at 12.9% Not listed Learn more
National Bank Auto Loan Rated 3.5 out of 5 (4 reviews)
Not listed Not listed up to 96 months Learn more
Scotiabank Auto Loan Rated 2 out of 5 (4 reviews)
Up to $1,000,000 Not listed Up to 15 years Learn more
Credit River Capital Inc Auto Loan No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
DealerPlan Financial Auto Loans No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
iA Auto Finance Auto Loan No reviews yet
Not listed Starting at 10.99% Not listed Learn more
Loans2Go Auto Loan No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
LMG Finance Auto Loan No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
Toyloan Auto Loan No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
Go Auto Car Loans No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed 36 – 96 months Learn more
TD Bank Car Loan No reviews yet
Up to $50,000 Not listed Up to 96 months Learn more
Santander Car Loan No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed Up to 96 months Learn more
Mortgage: lenders compared by loan amount, rate and term
LenderLoan amountRateTermDetails
Alpine Credits Home Equity Loan Rated 4.9 out of 5 (16 reviews)
$10,000 – $500,000 Starting at 10% Not listed Learn more
Spring Financial Mortgages Rated 5 out of 5 (3 reviews)
Borrow up to 80% of your home's value Rates shopped across 40+ banks and lenders Usually no broker fee; any fee is disclosed before you sign Not listed Learn more
nesto Mortgage Loans Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
Min $110,000 4.14% – 6.29% 24– 120 months Learn more
Frank Mortgage Mortgage Loans No reviews yet
$100,000 – $2,000,000 Varies 12 – 60 months Learn more
Lotly Home Equity Loan No reviews yet
$5,000 + 6% – 16% 12 – 60 months Learn more
Neo Mortgage Neo Mortgage™ No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
Blue Pearl Mortgage Mortgage Rated 5 out of 5 (2 reviews)
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
Capital Direct Home Equity Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
$10,000 – $3,000,000 Varies 12 – 24 months Learn more
Dominion Lending Center Mortgage Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
Mortgage Architects Mortgage Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
Not listed 4.54% – 7.49% 6 – 120 months Learn more
Mortgage Alliance Mortgage Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
Not listed 4.19% – 6.04% 12 – 120 months Learn more
First National Financial LP Residential Mortgage Rated 3.5 out of 5 (8 reviews)
Not listed 4.49% – 6.63% 1 – 10 years Learn more
CanWise Mortgages No reviews yet
Not listed 4.24% – 6.30% Not listed Learn more
CHIP Reverse Mortgage Reverse Mortgage No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed 12 – 60 months Learn more
Equitable Bank Reverse Mortgage No reviews yet
Not listed Varies Not listed Learn more
Think Financial Mortgage No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
Tangerine Mortgage No reviews yet
$50,000+ Not listed 12 – 120 months Learn more
True North Mortgage Mortgage No reviews yet
$150,000 – $1,500,000 2.99% – 5.49% 6 – 60 months Learn more
Verico Mortgage No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
Peoples Bank Mortgages No reviews yet
Not listed 4.50% – 5.97% 12 – 60 months Learn more
Mortgage Intelligence Mortgage No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
Debt Relief: providers and the services they offer
ProviderServicesDetails
Consolidated Credit Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
  • Credit Counselling
  • Debt Management Program
Learn more
4Pillars Rated 5 out of 5 (2 reviews)
  • Debt Restructuring
  • After Care - Credit Rebuilding Program
  • Corporate Debt Restructuring
Learn more
Full Circle Debt Solutions Inc Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
  • Credit Counselling
  • Debt Management Program
Learn more
BDO Rated 4.6 out of 5 (9 reviews)
  • Credit Counselling
  • Bankruptcy
  • Consumer Proposal
Learn more
Money Mentors No reviews yet
  • Credit Counselling
  • Orderly Payment of Debts (OPD) Program
Visit site
Business Loan: lenders compared by loan amount, rate and term
LenderLoan amountRateTermDetails
SharpShooter Funding Business Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (30 reviews)
$1,000 – $300,000 Not listed 12 – 120 months Learn more
Merchant Growth Term Financing No reviews yet
$5,000 – $800,000 Not listed 6 – 24 months Learn more
OnTap Capital Business Financing Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
$10,000 – $2,000,000 10%+ Up to 36 months Learn more
Primed Loans Business Financing No reviews yet
$10,000 – $20,000,000 Not listed Not listed Learn more
Bizcap Working Capital No reviews yet
Up to 2 million Not listed Flexible Learn more
Driven Business Loan No reviews yet
$10,000 – $300,000 Not listed 3 – 24 months Learn more
Journey Capital Business Term Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
$5,000 – $300,000 9% – 35% Varies by product Learn more
Lending Loop Small Business Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
$ 1,000 – $500,000 4.96% – 24.93% 1 – 60 months Learn more
IOU Financial Term Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
$15,000 – $1,500,000 Not listed 6 – 36 months Learn more
iCommission Commission Advance No reviews yet
Up to $40,000 $0.75 per $1,000 per day Not listed Learn more
Helium Loans Business Term Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
$500 – $50,000 Varies 6 – 60 months Learn more
iCapital Commercial Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
Up to $250,000 Not listed 3 – 24 months Learn more
Canadian Equipment Finance Equipment Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
$50,000 – $12,000,000 Not listed 24 – 96 months Learn more
Dynamic Capital Equipment Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
$3,000,000+ Not listed Not listed Learn more
Easylease Corp Equipment Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (5 reviews)
Up to $5,000,000 Not listed 24 – 72 months Learn more
Econolease Financial Services Inc. Equipment Leasing Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
$1,000 – $1,000,000 6% – 20% Not listed Learn more
FundThrough Invoice Financing Rated 5 out of 5 (2 reviews)
$500 – $50,000 2.75% – 8.25% 12 week cycles Learn more
Lease Link Working Capital Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (2 reviews)
Up to $250,000 Not listed Up to 48 months Learn more
Money in Motion Equipment Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
$10,000 – $1,000,000 4% – 14% 12 – 84 months Learn more
Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) Business Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
Starting at $5,000 Not listed Up to 84 months Learn more
Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) Business Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
Up to $1,000,000 Not listed Up to 15 years Learn more
BarterPay Barter Loan Rated 5 out of 5 (1 review)
BP 2,500 – BP 100,000 Not listed 6 – 60 months Learn more
National Bank Business Loan Rated 3.5 out of 5 (4 reviews)
Up to $1,000,000 Not listed Not listed Learn more
B2B Bank Investment Loan Rated 2.6 out of 5 (5 reviews)
$10,000 – $300,000 Not listed Not listed Learn more
Bank of Montreal (BMO) Business Loan Rated 3 out of 5 (2 reviews)
Up to $500,000 Not listed Up to 15 years Learn more
BDC Business Loan Rated 1.5 out of 5 (15 reviews)
Up to $100,000 Not listed Not listed Learn more
Scotiabank Business Loan Rated 2 out of 5 (4 reviews)
Up to $1,000,000 Not listed Up to 15 years Learn more
CanaCap Merchant Cash Advance Rated 2.3 out of 5 (3 reviews)
Up to $250,000 Not listed Not listed Learn more
Laurentian Bank of Canada Business Loan Rated 1 out of 5 (1 review)
Up to $250,000 Not listed Up to 10 years Learn more
Essex Lease Financial Corporation Equipment Loan No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
Export Development Canada Commercial Financing No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
Leaseline Equipment Leasing No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed 24 – 60 months Learn more
Peel Financial Equipment Loans No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
Core Capital Group Inc Equipment Financing No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
Loop Business Line of Credit No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed Not listed Learn more
TD Bank Business Loan No reviews yet
Not listed Not listed 12 – 60 months Learn more
2M7 Financial Solutions Merchant Cash Advance No reviews yet
$1000 – $250,000 Not listed Not listed Learn more
Title Loan: lenders compared by loan amount, rate and term
LenderLoan amountRateTermDetails
BHM Financial Title Loan Rated 4.2 out of 5 (5 reviews)
Up to $50,000 Not listed Not listed Learn more

Rates last checked: October 2026


If you plan to buy a home in Alberta, you’ll probably need to take out a mortgage to finance it. A mortgage will help you finance a purchase, which would otherwise be nearly impossible given the high prices of real estate these days. Here’s everything you need to know about mortgages in Alberta.

Pre-Approvals Are Very Helpful

Before you start house hunting in Alberta, it’s always a good idea to start out the process by getting pre-approved for a mortgage. They’re usually good for about 90 days, after which they are no longer valid. While this won’t necessarily guarantee that you’ll get final mortgage approval after you’ve made an offer on a home, it can be helpful in many ways.

Know How Much You Can Afford

For example, there’s no sense in looking at homes that are in the $800,000 range if you can only get approved for a $500,000 mortgage based on your current finances. Getting pre-approved will tell you how much you’ll likely get approved for, which can help you budget accordingly and focus only on properties in Alberta that are within your financial means.

Stand Out to Sellers

Sellers in Alberta want to be confident that the buyer they agree to sell to has the financial capability of getting approved for a mortgage. With a pre-approval letter in hand, buyers will seem more serious to sellers, which will give the sellers more reassurance. And if there is a bidding war, a pre-approval letter is absolutely necessary.

Move The Mortgage Approval Process Along

Once you find a home, put in an offer, and the deal enters escrow, the final mortgage approval process begins. But because you’ve already been pre-approved and have already submitted all documents, the process can be much smoother and more streamlined, helping to move the process along faster.

Wondering if you should spend your entire pre-approval amount when buying a home? Find out here.

Different Types of Mortgages Available in Alberta

There are a few different types of mortgages in Alberta that you may want to consider before deciding on one:

Conventional mortgages – These mortgages require a minimum 20% down payment.

Look here to know the difference between a conventional mortgage and a collateral mortgage.

High-ratio mortgages – These are conventional mortgages in Alberta that require a minimum of 5% down and come with mortgage default insurance or CMHC insurance. This policy is required by lenders in Alberta and Canada, in general, because of the higher risk associated with a higher loan-to-value ratio and protects the lender if you are unable to pay your mortgage.

Trying to get a down payment for a house in Canada? Here’s how you can accomplish that goal.

Bridge loans – These types of loans are often sought after by those in Alberta who have bad credit and are unable to secure a conventional mortgage. They’re designed to provide consumers in Alberta and Canada, in general, with short-term solutions by using their homes to boost their credit when conventional lenders turn them down for a home loan. Bridge loans give borrowers a chance to access lower interest rates on loans in the near future.

For more information about short term mortgage financing and bridge loans, look at this.

Fixed-rate mortgages – With these types of mortgages, the interest rate remains fixed throughout the term. As such, the mortgage payment amount does not change each month, making it easier for borrowers to budget. Many first-time buyers in Alberta prefer fixed-rate mortgages because of their predictable mortgage payments. They’re also ideal if interest rates are expected to increase in the near future. By locking in at today’s rate, borrowers can be protected should the rates increase over the short term.

Check out this other page to learn more about fixed and variable rate mortgages.

Adjustable-rate mortgages – These mortgages involve interest rates that fluctuate. At specific intervals, the rate is adjusted according to the current posted rate as determined by the Bank of Canada. Because the rate fluctuates, the mortgage payment amounts also change periodically. An adjustable-rate mortgage is great if the rate is expected to decrease in the near future, allowing borrowers to take advantage of lower rates. They’re also a good option for those who don’t plan to stick around in their home for very long, allowing them to get out of the mortgage once the initial fixed-interest-rate period expires.

Want to know more about fixed and variable loans in general? Try reading this.

Home equity line of credit (HELOC) – Also referred to as second mortgages, HELOCs allow borrowers in Alberta to borrow against their home. Basically, a new loan is taken out on a home that already has a mortgage on it. HELOCs allow borrowers to borrow against the equity in their home to free up money to be used for other purposes.

Mortgage Amortization Period

When you take out a mortgage in Alberta, you’ll be given a certain amount of time to repay the entire loan amount. This is known as the amortization period. The most common length of time given in Canada is 25 years. However, the amortization period can be shorter or longer, depending on what the lender is willing to offer you.

Shorter amortization periods allow borrowers to repay the loan amount sooner rather than later. But because the loan is repaid in a shorter period of time, the mortgage payments are higher. That said, the overall loan amount is cheaper because less money is put toward the interest portion of the mortgage.

Longer amortization periods are highly favourable among many borrowers in Alberta because the monthly payment amounts are smaller. Borrowers have more time to pay off their mortgage, which can take some pressure off of them to repay their loan. However, longer amortization periods are more expensive in the long run because more money is contributed to the interest portion.

Mortgage Insurance Rules in Alberta

In order to get a mortgage, borrowers must come up with a down payment to be put toward the purchase price of the home. If a borrower in Alberta put less than 20% down on a mortgage, lenders will charge mortgage default insurance, or CMHC insurance, which is designed to protect the lender if the borrower defaults on the loan at any point throughout the term. In order to avoid paying this extra amount, at least 20% must be put down.

Click here for more knowledge about high ratio mortgages and mortgage default insurance.

Tips For Saving for a Down Payment

As mentioned already, a down payment is a crucial part of mortgages in Alberta. But considering how expensive homes in Alberta can be, it can be a challenge for borrowers to save up a sizeable amount of money to be used as a down payment. That said, there are several things you can do to save up for a down payment:

  • Prioritize your saving
  • Pay off your high-interest debt first (such as credit cards)
  • Keep your spending to a minimum
  • Borrow funds from your RRSP account
  • Look into First-Time Homebuyers Programs
  • Have your savings automated

Thinking about borrowing money for your down payment instead? Read this first.

Different Options For Mortgage Payments in Alberta

The goal of having a mortgage is to eventually pay it off in full at some date in the future. But in order to do that, you’ll be expected to make regular installment payments to chip away at that loan amount. You have different options when it comes to making mortgage payments, including the following:

  • Monthly payments – This is the most common type of payment schedule, and involves making one payment each month.
  • Bi-weekly – Instead of making one payment per month, you’ll make two payments a month for a total of 26 payments.
  • Accelerate bi-weekly – The payment schedule involves making one-half of the monthly mortgage payment every two weeks.
  • Weekly – With this schedule, your mortgage payments would be made once a week.

Read more about these mortgage payment options by clicking here.

Comparing Mortgages From Different Lenders

In order to make sure you’re getting the best mortgage product with ideal terms and rates, you’d be well-advised to compare mortgage products from different lenders. This will allow you to find the best mortgage for your particular financial situation.

Look here if you’ve been trying to compare lenders in Canada.

In order to compare mortgage offers, there are a few key components to look at, including the following:

  • Interest rate
  • Fees
  • Points to pay down (which can lower the interest rate)
  • Amortization period
  • Term
  • Pre-payment options
  • Early repayment penalties

Like any other contract, reading the fine print can help you identify any pertinent information that could influence your decision on which mortgage product to choose, so be sure to carefully review the terms before you sign on the dotted line.

Why do different mortgage lenders offer different mortgage rates? Find out here.

Credit Score Required to Get a Mortgage in Alberta

In order to get approved for a mortgage in Alberta, a certain credit score is required. In Alberta, lenders typically want to see credit scores no lower than 680. Anything lower than this could be a deterrent for mortgage approval.

Read this if you want more details about the minimum credit score for mortgage approval in Canada.

A low credit score is a reflection of a person’s financial past. Usually, a string of missed or late payments has occurred, which have contributed to a lower credit score. Borrowers with a low credit score are risky for lenders, which is why they’ll either reject these mortgage applications or charge a much higher interest rate to make up for it.

The higher the credit score, the better the chances of mortgage approval and lower interest rates.

Alternative Mortgages For Borrowers in Alberta With Bad Credit

If your credit score isn’t as high as conventional lenders would like it to be, you have options to consider:

Get a co-signer – If you can’t get approved for a mortgage on your own, having a co-signer on the mortgage can help convince the lender to accept your application. A co-signer agrees to make the mortgage payments if you fail to do so yourself. It’s a big responsibility, but a co-signer with good credit can mean the difference between a rejected and approved mortgage application.

Want to know what types of loans you can get with a cosigner? Click here to find out.

Work with a bad credit lender – There are lenders out there who deal exclusively with bad credit borrowers. These lenders place more weight on other factors aside from credit scores, such as income and down payment amounts. That said, it’s important to be careful with who you deal with, as some lenders out there could be scammers.

Need a bad credit loan in Alberta? Try looking here.

Take time to improve your credit score – If you’re not in a rush to buy a home, consider taking some time out to improve your credit score. There are many things you can do right now to give your credit score a boost, including the following:

  • Make your payments on time and in full every month
  • Don’t spend any more than 30% of your credit card limit
  • Don’t apply for too many loans or lines of credit
  • Don’t close out any old credit lines
  • Pay off debt accounts before closing them

Within a few months, you can have a higher credit score, which can make it easier for you to get approved for a mortgage with better terms and a lower rate.

To see some more alternative mortgage financing options, check this out.

Costs of Purchasing a House in Alberta

Your mortgage is a huge cost when it comes to buying a home in Alberta. But there are several other costs associated with this purchase that you should be aware of in order to budget appropriately:

  • Down payment
  • Interest
  • Home inspection
  • Appraisal
  • Real estate agent commissions
  • Legal fees
  • Survey fees
  • Title insurance
  • CMHC insurance
  • Home insurance
  • Property taxes
  • Renovations
  • Maintenance fees
  • New home warranty fee
  • Condo fees (if applicable)

There are plenty of fees associated with buying and owning a home, so make sure you’ve budgeted for them long before applying for a mortgage in Alberta.

Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to get a pre-approved mortgage in Alberta?

A pre-approved mortgage comes with many benefits. You gain better negotiating power with a seller by showing them you’ve been pre-approved. You’ll also get to know in advance up to how much you can qualify for and get an estimate of your monthly obligation. Best of all, you get to lock in a favourable interest rate for up to 4 months, depending on the lender. In order to get your pre-approval, the lender will ask you to check your credit history. In addition, you will be asked to submit identification, proof of income, proof of closing costs and down payment, as well as info about your debts, assets, and expenses.

What are the penalties for paying my mortgage early?

Paying off your mortgage quicker can help you save on interest. If you have an open mortgage, then you can pay it off early to save on interest with no penalty of any kind. However, if you have a closed mortgage, making early payments or paying it off completely can cost you thousands of dollars in prepayment penalties. Such penalties also apply when you break your contract to transfer to another lender or if you sell your home. Some contracts allow for a prepayment privilege. This lets you make extra payments towards your mortgage to save on interest. How the prepayment privilege works and the amount you can prepay will vary based on the lender.

Where can I get a mortgage in Alberta?

The primary types of mortgage lenders are banks, credit unions and caisses populaires. Alternative options include mortgage, insurance, trust, and loan companies. They each offer different interest rates and contract types depending on the client. A licensed mortgage broker would be a good place to start. They have access to a wider range of lenders that don’t work directly with borrowers and will find the option best suited for you. They usually work on a commission from the lender and don’t take an upfront fee for their services.

Final Thoughts

Buying a home in Alberta is a big investment, and entering a contract for a mortgage is a long-term commitment. To make sure you a ready to take out a mortgage, take a long look at your finances. Speak with a financial advisor, real estate agent, and mortgage broker to see what your options are. And when you’re ready to take out a mortgage, be sure to speak with an associate at Loans Canada to help you find the ideal mortgage product for you.

More From Our Experts

OSFI Puts Non‑Bank Financial Institutions Back On Its Risk Watchlist
OSFI Puts Non‑Bank Financial Institutions Back On Its Risk Watchlist

OSFI has placed non‑bank financial institutions on its risk watchlist, citing rising liquidity & housing‑related risks. Learn more here.

How Are Mortgage Rates Determined?
How Are Mortgage Rates Determined?

Planning to buy a home and want to know what rate you'll be charged? Check out this blog post to find out how mortgage rates are determined.

How To Avoid Mortgage Prepayment Penalty Fees
How To Avoid Mortgage Prepayment Penalty Fees

Paying off your mortgage early but worried about being penalized? Read on to find out how to avoid mortgage prepayment penalty fees.

Average House Price In Canada (2026)
Average House Price In Canada (2026)

The average house price in Canada is $674,819 as of July 2026. See average home prices by province and territory, plus rent vs buy and affordability t...

Interest Rate Differential (IRD): Canadian Mortgage Penalty Explained
Interest Rate Differential (IRD): Canadian Mortgage Penalty Explained

Learn how the Interest Rate Differential (IRD) penalty works, why lenders charge it, & how it affects mortgage break costs & refinancing.

How To Buy A Condo: A Step-By-Step Guide For Buyers
How To Buy A Condo: A Step-By-Step Guide For Buyers

Learn how to buy a condo with confidence! Discover key steps, tips, financing advice, and what to look for before making your purchase.

Best Time To Make A Lump Sum Mortgage Payment
Best Time To Make A Lump Sum Mortgage Payment

Came across a lot of money and want to use it for your home loan? Find out when's the best time to make a lump sum payment on your mortgage.

Guide To Home Appraisals In Canada
Guide To Home Appraisals In Canada

Learn what a home appraisal is, how it affects property value, and why it's a key step in buying and selling a house.

What Is A Rate Hold On A Mortgage?
What Is A Rate Hold On A Mortgage?

A rate-hold mortgage offers many benefits, including the ability to search the market for the best deal without fear of losing out on another deal.

How To Switch Mortgage Lenders
How To Switch Mortgage Lenders

Want to switch your mortgage lender? Consider when you should switch your mortgage and the costs involved to help you save money.

Why choose Loans Canada?

Apply Once &
Get Multiple Offers
Save Time
And Money
Get Your Free
Credit Score
Free
Service
Expert Tips
And Advice
Exclusive
Offers
Caitlin Wood Priyanka Correia Lisa Rennie Bryan Daly Cris Ravazzano Margaret Johnson Kale Havervold Liz Enriquez Sean Cooper Veronica Ott Corrina Murdoch Chrissy Kapralos

A Team of Experts

Get expert tips and guidance from a community of renown personal finance experts right here at Loans Canada. We're here to help you stay informed so you can make the best financial decisions.

Compare lenders

Figures are as listed by each lender and can change. Check the lender's site before you apply.